Introduction
Many groups have been known to experience lower health and oral clinical outcomes than the overall population. This study highlighted the significance of dental hygienists in addressing health concerns and the necessity to eliminate oral health inequities. Dental hygienists have a distinct point of view to provide about the ways in which inequities in oral health might be eliminated. They provide oral care services in traditional areas of practice, such as private or public dental clinics, but they also work in non-traditional settings, such as independent and mobile clinics, long-term care settings, and multidisciplinary environments (Farmer et al. 2). The findings of this research have illuminated numerous previously unknown aspects of the core responsibilities of dental hygienists. As a result of being acquainted with the corpus of study, a number of conclusions were drawn, they will be presented further.
Research Summary
According to the findings of the current one-piece study, the manner in which the dental hygienist engages with the patient sets the stage for further dialogue. It has a direct influence on the patient’s perspective on the personal hygiene of the mouth cavity, as well as the number of times they check into the hospital. It became clear that dental hygienists are responsible for educating patients about the rules for sustaining the health of their oral cavities and teeth. This is because not everyone is aware of the correct way to clean their teeth, so this responsibility falls squarely on the shoulders of dental hygienists.
It is essential to keep in mind that dental hygienists operate in conjunction with surgeons and physicians, and that the obstacles that exist in their communication are detrimental to the health of the public. In addition to the results that were discussed earlier, a number of concerns with the working practice have been uncovered. One of these key concerns that significantly limits the field of practice is the lack of essential life-saving devices.
Research Application
As a result of my research, I now have a different perspective on a number of facets of oral hygiene. In particular, I have realized that raising knowledge and awareness both within and across different healthcare professions is required to bring about a reduction in the existing inequities in oral health. A better understanding of oral health care and the provision of preventive dental treatments by practitioners other than dentists is a direct result of having knowledge. In addition, I now believe that the communication strategy utilized by dental hygienists and other professionals is an essential component in the process of bringing about change. As a future dental hygienist, I now assert that communication should take a more open-minded approach1. I have become aware of the necessity of educating the community as well as the requirement of promoting advocacy for better health outcomes
Gaining an edge in the job market entails acquiring certain knowledge and abilities. Because of the ongoing changes in the healthcare system, oral health care services will likely be provided differently in 2040 (Fried et al. 45). Oral health care will ultimately become a more integrated aspect of medical treatment in order to attain the goals of decreased cost, increased access, and higher quality and to enhance population wellness.
In light of my findings, I have determined that there are a number of skills I need to develop in order to compete as a specialist. Case management, supervision, and the ability to create and stick to a budget are all examples of the kinds of leadership and management abilities that are necessary for providing these services. In the future, I hope to be culturally competent and aware of the inequalities in how communities stratified by socioeconomic status, race, gender, and age are treated relative to individuals. The scope of my responsibilities will expand as I join larger group practices and learn to embrace the field of dental care.
Reevaluation of the Hypothesis
The preliminary hypothesis was, in the end, proven correct and expanded2. Indeed, those from the lowest wealth quintile are the ones most prone to experience dental issues owing to a lack of care for their oral hygiene. Several pieces of evidence were found to back up the original ideas that were put up to explain the origins of the problem. The fact that not all people are conscious of the proper way to maintain their dental hygiene is the primary cause of this (Jongbloed-Zoet 127). This exemplifies the significant role dental hygienists play in assisting public wellness programs and encouraging health promotion.
Conclusion
It is imperative that influential thought leaders within the profession, advocates from other health professions, as well as consumer and academic organizations, work together to educate the public on the significance of dental hygienists’ duties in relation to oral health. More health outcomes might be seen in populations who have more limited access to medical treatment if the general populace were to become better informed about the significance of maintaining good oral health. The research produced a hypothesis that can be implemented and assessed by dental hygienists in a variety of practice settings. This will help dental hygienists better understand how to enhance and maintain excellent oral health outcomes in vulnerable demographic groups.
Works Cited
Farmer, J, et al. “Exploring the role of the dental hygienist in reducing oral health disparities in Canada: A qualitative study.” International Journal of Dental Hygiene, vol. 16, no. 2, 2017. Web.
Fried, Jacquelyn L., et al. “Preparing the future dental hygiene workforce: Knowledge, skills, and reform.” Journal of Dental Education, vol. 81, no. 9, 2017. Web.
Jongbloed-Zoet, Corrie. “The role of the dental hygienist in promoting oral health.” International Journal of Dental Hygiene, vol. 18, no. 2, 2020, p. 127. Web.
Footnotes
- A strategy to crucial communication among dental hygienists and other professionals, which was regarded as being important to the process of creating change.
- Members of the most disadvantaged communities are most likely to develop oral cancer due to poor oral hygiene.